Media Release by The Hon Tanya Pibersek MP

New National Rental Affordability Scheme housing in Gosford

Joint Media Release with:

  • Belinda Neal MP, Member for Robertson

Tanya Plibersek and Member for Roberston, Belinda Neal today inspected 28 new National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS) homes in Gosford.

The one, two and three-bedroom apartments are part of the Claireleigh Joint Venture proposal – accepted under round one of the NRAS – which is scheduled for completion in approximately six weeks.

The National Rental Affordability Scheme will help stimulate the construction of up to 50,000 new affordable rental properties across Australia by 2012.

“It’s important to note that by providing incentives to stimulate the supply of new rental homes, the Rudd Government is supporting jobs in the construction and building industries at a time when we need them most,” Ms Plibersek said.

“Through the National Rental Affordability Scheme, these 28 homes will be rented out at 20 per cent below market rate.

“This is a great result for households on low to moderate incomes, including key workers, who meet the eligibility requirements to rent these affordable rental homes.”

Ms Plibersek said the Rudd Government is encouraged by the ongoing strong interest in this innovative scheme, which offers a new investment class in Australia by providing annual incentives of $8000 per home for a 10 year period.

Ms Neal said the dwellings were part of the 1,074 homes approved in New South Wales under the first round of the NRAS.

“These new dwellings are in a prime location – near the main bus interchange, railway station, hospital and Mann Street commercial district,” Ms Neal said.

“They will effectively connect households to employment opportunities, their families and their friends – enhancing economic and social participation in the community.

“The NRAS is a great example of the State and Commonwealth governments working together to help the NSW construction industry during these tough global economic times.”

St Vincent de Paul owns the land on which the dwellings are being built, and will benefit from a new 500 square metre retail shop and almost 200 square metres of office space as part of the project.